Our Eldest

Our sweet Elia turns 8 years-old today.  I can hardly believe it.  She is a continual wonder.  Here is her year in review...

She commemorated 7 years by choosing to pierce her ears, which she accomplished tearlessly (on the second visit to Claires).

Middle of 1st grade she still had short hair, chubby cheeks and full-on fascination with horses.

She started loosing teeth. It was a very appropriate symbol of her maturing process this year; a bit painful, a bit thrilling and pretty much permanent.  

Friendships that started in kindergarten remained and deepened; I'm glad to report that she keeps very good company.

This was number 3 I believe.

Her eccentric side starting finding it's strength.

And she became very tall....Michael proportions I predict....

She got stronger in every sense of the word.

She finished 1st grade with Ms. Gutierrez a total champ, a totally literate champ!

And more teeth.

It's hard to name specifically, but she became more confident in herself, more secure somehow.

Her big sistering skills took on a whole new dimension and pleasure this year.

She matured without losing her precious little-girlness.  

Her nobility also became more visible.

I got to go on her first roller coaster ride.  I love her happy-nervous face; she was so brave.

Sweet friendships got sweeter despite the long summer break. 

Started second grade with gusto.

She still likes to play in puddles (thank you God!)

She still likes to cuddle (double thank you God!)

She began challenging herself creatively.

And she is now giving her hilarious comedic performer impulse full vent, which we all enjoy.

 She received the news of becoming the oldest of five kids with total delight.  She is the best biggest sister.  None of them can see it now, but she is blazing a trail for them that is big and bright and full adventure.  

Well done with your first full season of life.  We are very much looking forward to all the new beginnings you will have this year.

We love you Elia!